The Cloud? Is that in the sky? Here’s what you need to know

Laura Moxham • 18 January 2022

What is 'the cloud'?

For some computer owners, finding enough storage space to hold all the data they've acquired is a real challenge. Some people invest in larger hard drives. Others prefer external storage devices that plug into your computer. Most people are now choosing to back up their data to the Cloud. But what does that mean?

Cloud storage has nothing to do with the weather and it isn’t in the sky!

'The Cloud' is the term used to refer to saving data to an off-site storage system maintained by a third party. Instead of storing information to your computer's hard drive or other local storage device, you save it to a remote database. The Internet provides the connection between your computer and the database.

What are the advantages of the cloud?

Cloud storage (sometimes also called cloud backup) has several advantages over traditional data storage. For example, if you store your data on a cloud storage system, you're able to get to that data from any location that has Internet access. You don't need to carry around a physical storage device or use the same computer to save and retrieve the information. With the right storage system, you could even allow other people to access the data. That means you don’t have to email documents to each other or remember to save the latest version if you are working collaboratively on something.

Cloud storage is very convenient as you only pay for the space you use. It can be set up in such a way that you choose which files you want to save. It could be that you just want to save all your photos or videos to make sure nothing happens to them. If for any reason your computer failed, you’d connect to the cloud and download your files again with a simple click of the mouse.

There are lots of different cloud storage options and it can get confusing. Tech Angels can give you the advice you need to make sure you choose something which is right for you. Get in touch with us today.

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Windows 10 - Critical Updates for your Computer

2 February 2026

It's absolutely essential your computer is up to date to protect against security threats, fix software bugs, and improve system performance. Follow our step-by-step guide to extend your Windows 10 cover for FREE until October 2026. ================================================================ Step-by-step instructions to enrol for Windows 10 extended support (they call it ESU- extended security updates): Step 1: Install all pending Windows updates - Open Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update. - Click Check for updates and install every update (including cumulative updates). Reboot if requested. The ESU enrolment option appears only after your device is up to date. Step 2: Sign into a Microsoft account (if not already) - In Settings → Accounts → Your info, sign in with a Microsoft Account and ensure that account has administrator rights on the PC. Step 3: Enrol for ESU from Windows Update - Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update. - Look for the card/banner about Windows 10 end of support, with an “Enrol now” or “Get Extended Security Updates” link. Click it. Step 4: Follow the on-screen wizard - It will ask you to sign in to your Microsoft Account (if you didn’t already), confirm device(s) to enrol, and accept terms. Click Next/Enrol when prompted. Step 5: Verify enrolment & receive updates - After enrolling you should see a confirmation in Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update that the device is enrolled and will receive critical & important security updates. - Microsoft will deliver ESU security updates via Windows Update as they become available; continue to check for updates regularly. You're all set until October 2026! Well done. Any problems, you know who to call. Stay safe, Elliott and the Tech Angels team 01727 568869 admin@tech-angels.co.uk